Buoncristiani Cabernet Sauvignon

Buoncristiani Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 is a Napa Valley red from California, blended from 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Malbec and 2% Petit Verdot. It is made from small hillside lots in Howell Mountain, Atlas Peak and Coombsville, kept apart through fermentation and blended later. Expect cassis, black cherry, incense and dark chocolate with toasty oak, a deep mid-palate and a long, persistent finish. Delivered across Ontario.

The producer

The Buoncristiani brothers founded their family winery in Napa Valley in 1999 and do everything themselves, from vineyard and cellar to the label art, with Jay Buoncristiani as winemaker.

The vineyards

Small lots from hillside vineyards in Howell Mountain, Atlas Peak and Coombsville, including Ink Grade, Stagecoach and Richard Bennett. The blend is 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Malbec and 2% Petit Verdot.

How it's made

Each lot is kept separate through fermentation, pressing and its first year in French oak, then blended in stages during the second year. The wine is bottled without fining or filtering.

How it tastes

A deep nose of cassis, black cherry, incense and dark chocolate, with caramelized oak and toffee. The palate is balanced and deep through the middle, ending long and persistent.

How to serve it

Serve at 17 to 18°C with grilled ribeye, lamb chops or mushroom dishes.